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Crossing #1
Crossing Values
For years, Amber traipsed around the Northwest avoiding the skeletons in her closet. Job-hopping every few weeks, she refused to let anyone get close to her as she slowly made her way east. As winter plants itself firmly across the Rockies, she decides to take a chance on a job at a logging company with a family different from any she’s ever known before.
Watching the family interact creates more questions than answers for Amber. Feeling like she’s entered the happily-ever-after written at the end of fairytales, she watches for cracks in the façade. Surely as the days pass, the play-acting will cease and the real family will emerge.
Or could she be wrong? Could they truly be genuine? Could Faye understand the trauma from her past or Peter think of her as more than just the winter
office help? Could this family really hold the key to what she’s seeking?
Watching the family interact creates more questions than answers for Amber. Feeling like she’s entered the happily-ever-after written at the end of fairytales, she watches for cracks in the façade. Surely as the days pass, the play-acting will cease and the real family will emerge.
Or could she be wrong? Could they truly be genuine? Could Faye understand the trauma from her past or Peter think of her as more than just the winter
office help? Could this family really hold the key to what she’s seeking?
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 20, 2011
48 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 31, 2012
I am SO glad I won this book in a giveaway recently!! I really enjoyed the story of Amber and Peter. I love that it's a Christian based book without being so completely in your face, this is how it is, like some tend to be. The basic premise of everyone doing their best to love others, even strangers, is a great message! As is the message of being open to what our Heavenly Father has to tell you. A good reminder for everyday life that I myself need to work on. Highly recommended!!! Especially if you like Christian based fiction. Apparently, this is book one in a series of at least three and I can't wait to read the others!
March 19, 2013
I can't say enough about how wonderful this book is, I knew in jut the first chapter I was going to enjoy this book. I felt so much comfort, love and understanding of God. I felt a part of the family and was happy when they were happy and sad when they were. I've lived in most of the places in the book so it was wonderful to read a book and know just where Carrie was talking about. I came from a family of loggers and felt like it was old home week reading about it. I can't wait to get into the next book "Ryan's Crossing".
Carrie, your writing style is so warm and comforting. Thank you for writing these books. I needed the love and comfort.
Carrie, your writing style is so warm and comforting. Thank you for writing these books. I needed the love and comfort.
July 19, 2012
Admittedly, I don't spend a lot of time reading fiction but was so glad I gave Crossing Values a read. It was the perfect book to keep me company while on vacation. The characters were 'real' but not weighed down by too many details. The story was engaging and moved along at the perfect pace. I enjoyed the twists and turns and loved the message conveyed. Very glad I picked it up!
January 13, 2013
Crossing Values by Carrie Daws
-From The Back Cover-
For years, Amber traipsed around the Northwest avoiding the skeletons in her closet. Job-hopping every few weeks, she refused to let anyone get close to her as she slowly made her way east. As winter firmly plants itself across the Rockies, she decides to take a chance on a job at a logging company with a family different than any she's ever known before.
Watching the family interact creates more questions than answers for Amber. Feeling like she's entered the happily-ever-after written at the end of fairytales, she watches for cracks in the facade. Surely as the days pass, the play-acting will cease and the real family will emerge.
Or could she be wrong? Could they truly be genuine? Could Faye understand the trauma from her past or Peter think of her as more than just the winter office help? Could this family really hold the key to what she's seeking?
_________________________
I enjoyed this simple sweet story a lot. Crossing Values is a book full of just that, Family Values. The Yager sometimes seems a little too perfect but then you realize that they are what every Christian family SHOULD be, they are simply living what they believe. They have had their trials just like the rest of us but they went to the right place for answers.
The author doesn't hide or play down her Christianity and its importance to every part of life. So often Christian authors write a book that is just a cleaner version of any secular book on the shelf. Not here. I will say that the author does NOT spend page after page repeating sermons which would have gotten tiresome.
Crossing Values is sweet love story that reminds you much of The Walton's and Andy Griffith with a touch of Mitford. If you are looking for a story where family and God are the most important themes then try Crossing Values.
One word of warning, the Yager family's practical jokes and antics will leave you in stitches and you will think twice about letting any boys in your family read about them ;)
Tell Tale Book Reviews (my blog) gives Crossing Values a 4 Bark (4 star) Rating.
-From The Back Cover-
For years, Amber traipsed around the Northwest avoiding the skeletons in her closet. Job-hopping every few weeks, she refused to let anyone get close to her as she slowly made her way east. As winter firmly plants itself across the Rockies, she decides to take a chance on a job at a logging company with a family different than any she's ever known before.
Watching the family interact creates more questions than answers for Amber. Feeling like she's entered the happily-ever-after written at the end of fairytales, she watches for cracks in the facade. Surely as the days pass, the play-acting will cease and the real family will emerge.
Or could she be wrong? Could they truly be genuine? Could Faye understand the trauma from her past or Peter think of her as more than just the winter office help? Could this family really hold the key to what she's seeking?
_________________________
I enjoyed this simple sweet story a lot. Crossing Values is a book full of just that, Family Values. The Yager sometimes seems a little too perfect but then you realize that they are what every Christian family SHOULD be, they are simply living what they believe. They have had their trials just like the rest of us but they went to the right place for answers.
The author doesn't hide or play down her Christianity and its importance to every part of life. So often Christian authors write a book that is just a cleaner version of any secular book on the shelf. Not here. I will say that the author does NOT spend page after page repeating sermons which would have gotten tiresome.
Crossing Values is sweet love story that reminds you much of The Walton's and Andy Griffith with a touch of Mitford. If you are looking for a story where family and God are the most important themes then try Crossing Values.
One word of warning, the Yager family's practical jokes and antics will leave you in stitches and you will think twice about letting any boys in your family read about them ;)
Tell Tale Book Reviews (my blog) gives Crossing Values a 4 Bark (4 star) Rating.
August 20, 2012
Crossing Values is a quick but powerful read. I love the fact that I could easily give this book to my daughter (age 13) to read and not be uncomfortable with anything in the book. I felt that the family who took in Amber had a genuine faith that they lived out in their lives which make the faith base for the book feel natural. The family bantering reminded me of fun family gatherings. Amber’s past taints the way that she views the world, and she struggles with some difficult questions about faith and God. The questions are ones that many of us often ask when something goes wrong in our lives.
**possible spoiler** I appreciated that fact that Amber’s budding relationship with Peter was built upon trust and friendship rather than focusing on the physical attraction. It was a breath of fresh air. I like that Daws felt it was important to focus on purity, healing from past hurts, faith, and family unity. Instead of having the hot and heavy romance that seems to be popular, Daws went against the tide and kept her book (and the relationships within) pure. The men in the book held each other accountable while the women within the family lifted each other up.
Crossing Values is a short book – only 160 pages. It has 25 chapters, but some of the chapters are only one page long. (I found that part a little odd.) Would I recommend this book? If you’re looking for a clean, inspiring book that won’t take a long time to read, then yes, this is the book for you. If you’re looking for a highly romantic, passionate book, this will not be the book for you. I personally enjoyed it and liked being able to get caught up in a beautiful story of faith, family, and friends. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series – Ryan’s Crossing.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author to help facilitate the writing of a frank and honest review.
**possible spoiler** I appreciated that fact that Amber’s budding relationship with Peter was built upon trust and friendship rather than focusing on the physical attraction. It was a breath of fresh air. I like that Daws felt it was important to focus on purity, healing from past hurts, faith, and family unity. Instead of having the hot and heavy romance that seems to be popular, Daws went against the tide and kept her book (and the relationships within) pure. The men in the book held each other accountable while the women within the family lifted each other up.
Crossing Values is a short book – only 160 pages. It has 25 chapters, but some of the chapters are only one page long. (I found that part a little odd.) Would I recommend this book? If you’re looking for a clean, inspiring book that won’t take a long time to read, then yes, this is the book for you. If you’re looking for a highly romantic, passionate book, this will not be the book for you. I personally enjoyed it and liked being able to get caught up in a beautiful story of faith, family, and friends. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series – Ryan’s Crossing.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author to help facilitate the writing of a frank and honest review.
December 28, 2012
I had the privilege of reading “Crossing Values” by Carrie Daws. It is a short read with only one hundred and sixty pages with some chapters only being one page (which I have never seen before). The book is a Christian romantic fiction that focuses on emotional and family healing; I would recommend this book to anyone that likes to read romantic fiction but keeps you in some expense. It is about a young girl Amber who is avoiding the skeletons in her closet by running around the Northwest and ending in a small town Crossing, Oregon. As she was slowing making her way east she was job-hopping every few weeks, so no one could get close to her. During the winter while looking for work Frank Yager offers her a job at the families logging company, has she decides to take the job she realizes that the family is different from any she’s ever known before. As Amber watches the family interacts she has more questions than she has answers not knowing if they are genuine or not. As Amber is getting to know Frank, Faye, and Peter and that they have gone through their own tragedy she slowing lets her guard down and start letting them get closer to her.
I really enjoyed reading this book because it not only kept me in suspense of why Amber was running but it showed you how others can love someone even if they don’t know them. This book shows you what true faith is and how to rely on God. It also shows that once Amber can trust the Yager family and they share things about God, she sees true love that the family shows her and that God wants a closer relationship with her and not have her run away from him. I am looking forward to the sequel of “Ryan’s Crossing”.
I really enjoyed reading this book because it not only kept me in suspense of why Amber was running but it showed you how others can love someone even if they don’t know them. This book shows you what true faith is and how to rely on God. It also shows that once Amber can trust the Yager family and they share things about God, she sees true love that the family shows her and that God wants a closer relationship with her and not have her run away from him. I am looking forward to the sequel of “Ryan’s Crossing”.
September 19, 2012
I really think this is the first Christian Romance that I have ever read. Let me just say this, can I get my hands on some more? This book was so right up my alley. I was needing a quick fiction read. I was needing a story that was encouraging but maybe stretched my faith some.
This book did just that.
It's a love story. Jesus taught us to love God and to love others as we love ourselves. The Yager family does just that. Faye and Frank take in Amber, a girl on the run. Amber refused to let anyone get close to her. Everyone is going to hurt you or let you down, so don't let them get to close. Amber spends the winter helping the Yager family. As she spends the winter with them she starts to ask questions. Big, tough questions. Questions not all Christians are equipped to answer.
God prepared the Yager family for Amber. God guided Amber to this specific family, all without Amber every really believing. And if I tell you about my favorite part I will give you too much, so I must stop there.
Carrie Daws is not the first Christian Fiction author I have read. Her characters are the most "Christian" characters I have ever read. These characters pray. These characters talk about their faith. These characters talk about God. They quote and refer to scriputre. In others, off of this is implied. They way that Carrie develops her characters shows me that she also has a very strong faith. That was refreshing.
This book did just that.
It's a love story. Jesus taught us to love God and to love others as we love ourselves. The Yager family does just that. Faye and Frank take in Amber, a girl on the run. Amber refused to let anyone get close to her. Everyone is going to hurt you or let you down, so don't let them get to close. Amber spends the winter helping the Yager family. As she spends the winter with them she starts to ask questions. Big, tough questions. Questions not all Christians are equipped to answer.
God prepared the Yager family for Amber. God guided Amber to this specific family, all without Amber every really believing. And if I tell you about my favorite part I will give you too much, so I must stop there.
Carrie Daws is not the first Christian Fiction author I have read. Her characters are the most "Christian" characters I have ever read. These characters pray. These characters talk about their faith. These characters talk about God. They quote and refer to scriputre. In others, off of this is implied. They way that Carrie develops her characters shows me that she also has a very strong faith. That was refreshing.
January 6, 2013
I received this book from the author and I have never heard of Carrie Daws before BUT she is now one of my favorite Christian fiction authors!!!! I could have read Crossing Values (157 pages) in one day but I read at night before bed so it took me two nights but oh how I couldn't wait to go to bed at night to read!
I fell in love with Peter and his family and I do believe there is people out in the world that will treat a stranger like family because I am one of them. I wanted to know what Amber was running from and boy I didn't see that coming.
This book is just not just a romance book but it had some suspense which I loved! I loved this book so much because it was a true Christian book and I love how Carrie had a relationship with the characters and God.
Carrie had me laughing at times and almost wanting to cry because Amber was talking about her past. Then had me laughing again. I loved the roller coaster she had me on.
I hated when this book ended but I was lucky to get Ryan's Crossing so I had to start it right away and read until midnight.
I would have given Crossing Values more than 5 stars if able.
I fell in love with Peter and his family and I do believe there is people out in the world that will treat a stranger like family because I am one of them. I wanted to know what Amber was running from and boy I didn't see that coming.
This book is just not just a romance book but it had some suspense which I loved! I loved this book so much because it was a true Christian book and I love how Carrie had a relationship with the characters and God.
Carrie had me laughing at times and almost wanting to cry because Amber was talking about her past. Then had me laughing again. I loved the roller coaster she had me on.
I hated when this book ended but I was lucky to get Ryan's Crossing so I had to start it right away and read until midnight.
I would have given Crossing Values more than 5 stars if able.
October 2, 2012
The book "Crossing Values" by Carrie Daws was excellent! It was an easy read with characters that came to life. I loved the way the Yager family took Amber in without knowing a thing about her. They truly lived their Christian beliefs, as we all should, and trusted God for all things.
The plot flowed smoothly, and the characters were believable. I loved the way the Yager family teased each other and interacted in a believable way. This book gave the example of the love Christians should have for everyone, even someone they just met.
This is a good, clean, Christian book suitable for all ages and would be enjoyed by teenagers as well as adults. I absolutely LOVED it!
The plot flowed smoothly, and the characters were believable. I loved the way the Yager family teased each other and interacted in a believable way. This book gave the example of the love Christians should have for everyone, even someone they just met.
This is a good, clean, Christian book suitable for all ages and would be enjoyed by teenagers as well as adults. I absolutely LOVED it!
October 28, 2013
Wow! I read this book, like any other I would read, and not factor in that the author is related to me. I was caught up in the book from the beginning to the end! That is sheer honesty. I have know Carrie since she was born, and watched her grow into a gracious caring woman who loves The Lord. I had no idea she had this talent concealed. The book was so open & honest. It constantly reminded me of how God really is in control of our lives & how blessed we are when we choose to follow Him & His leading. Love the book can't wait to get the next one, Ryan's Crossing to read. Great job Carrie!
Sue Odenwelder
January 30, 2013
It is so wonderful to read a good, clean book that makes you look at your own life, and consider how you stand on the issue or issues written about. Amber has trouble with trust, in God, in people and in life. Where do you stand with the trust issue? This very well written story uses some suspense, lots of learning and a little romance to bring trust about in Amber's life. It certainly reminded me of how important it is to trust the Lord in everything.
March 8, 2012
Sweet heartwarming mystery story I enjoyed it.
March 12, 2013
Carries Daws’ book, Crossing Values, grabbed my attention from the first page, and I was drawn into the story and invited to stay as if I belonged. I appreciated her ability to weave the small town setting of Crossing, Oregon located in the Cascade Mountains into her story. She did a remarkable job with the characters and highlighting their pain and struggles in a way that is genuine and real.
Drawn in by Peter’s family in the same way they welcomed Amber, I felt like part of their home immediately and as though I had been encouraged to go inside, take off my shoes and make myself comfortable by the fire. I sensed their love for God and admired their desire to show that same love to others who crossed their paths. Reading this story was almost like being adopted into their family. The cast of characters is engaging and believable, supportive of each other, and people I would like to get to know and have as my own personal friends. Peter’s relationship with God is deep and personal, and his desire to obey God is inspiring and challenged me to do the same.
Clearly evident throughout the story is the way God uses Peter and his family to draw Amber closer to Him. God’s love for her is evident in the gentle way He pursues her, encouraging Amber to open up her heart and yield her hurts to Him for healing. I sensed the struggles in both Amber and Peter and found myself rooting for them as I read this book. I felt Peter’s internal struggle to know God’s heart and his desire to do God’s will and not hurt the people he loves. Amber deals with learning to depend on others, ultimately finding peace after she bravely risks letting people get emotionally close to her.
Delivering a powerful message on trust and loving God, this book is realistically written and easy to read. The humorous scenes are believable and funny; the sad scenes touched my heart and brought me to tears. Two questions I kept asking myself as I turned page after page are, “How much do I trust God?” and “How much do I show God’s love to people I don’t know?” Filled with good-natured teasing and humor, this novel is as uplifting as it is convicting.
Carrie did a great job writing this gentle love story and has something unique to offer her readers. This is a great story for all ages – from teenage daughters to grandmothers. I won’t hesitate to recommend this book to my nieces, sister or mother. I’m also planning on getting a copy to place in our church library. I encourage anyone who wants to read a clean romance novel with an uplifting message to get this book.
Drawn in by Peter’s family in the same way they welcomed Amber, I felt like part of their home immediately and as though I had been encouraged to go inside, take off my shoes and make myself comfortable by the fire. I sensed their love for God and admired their desire to show that same love to others who crossed their paths. Reading this story was almost like being adopted into their family. The cast of characters is engaging and believable, supportive of each other, and people I would like to get to know and have as my own personal friends. Peter’s relationship with God is deep and personal, and his desire to obey God is inspiring and challenged me to do the same.
Clearly evident throughout the story is the way God uses Peter and his family to draw Amber closer to Him. God’s love for her is evident in the gentle way He pursues her, encouraging Amber to open up her heart and yield her hurts to Him for healing. I sensed the struggles in both Amber and Peter and found myself rooting for them as I read this book. I felt Peter’s internal struggle to know God’s heart and his desire to do God’s will and not hurt the people he loves. Amber deals with learning to depend on others, ultimately finding peace after she bravely risks letting people get emotionally close to her.
Delivering a powerful message on trust and loving God, this book is realistically written and easy to read. The humorous scenes are believable and funny; the sad scenes touched my heart and brought me to tears. Two questions I kept asking myself as I turned page after page are, “How much do I trust God?” and “How much do I show God’s love to people I don’t know?” Filled with good-natured teasing and humor, this novel is as uplifting as it is convicting.
Carrie did a great job writing this gentle love story and has something unique to offer her readers. This is a great story for all ages – from teenage daughters to grandmothers. I won’t hesitate to recommend this book to my nieces, sister or mother. I’m also planning on getting a copy to place in our church library. I encourage anyone who wants to read a clean romance novel with an uplifting message to get this book.
December 30, 2012
Amber has been running from her past for years. She never stays in one place. It is as if something or someone is chasing.
When she hits the Rockies right in the middle of winter she decides to find a job and wait out old man winter. She is offered not only job but room and board working for a logging company. She will be helping out the owner wife in the office. It was much more than she had ever expected. This family was a merry bunch and it was very evident that God was the center of their lives. The couple had several grown children with one of their sons living at home. Amber at first just sat back and watched and learned as much as she could about the family. She thought they were just too good to be real. She was waiting for them to show their real selves. But the more time she lived and worked with them they were the real thing. A happy family.
The son, Peter that lived at home saw something sad and tragic in Amber that made him want to reach out and give her comfort. He talked to her about anything to get her to open up.
What was Amber hiding? Was she in some kind of danger? Do you believe in Angels?
The author has written a heart wrenching story of loss, fear and reconciliation.
This story made me cry, laugh and search my heart for my own fears. So many people for some reason or another may have pulled away from their families. Reading this story will make you reconsidered your actions.
I am looking forward to reading Ryan's Crossing, book 2 in this series.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Ambassador-Emerald International for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
When she hits the Rockies right in the middle of winter she decides to find a job and wait out old man winter. She is offered not only job but room and board working for a logging company. She will be helping out the owner wife in the office. It was much more than she had ever expected. This family was a merry bunch and it was very evident that God was the center of their lives. The couple had several grown children with one of their sons living at home. Amber at first just sat back and watched and learned as much as she could about the family. She thought they were just too good to be real. She was waiting for them to show their real selves. But the more time she lived and worked with them they were the real thing. A happy family.
The son, Peter that lived at home saw something sad and tragic in Amber that made him want to reach out and give her comfort. He talked to her about anything to get her to open up.
What was Amber hiding? Was she in some kind of danger? Do you believe in Angels?
The author has written a heart wrenching story of loss, fear and reconciliation.
This story made me cry, laugh and search my heart for my own fears. So many people for some reason or another may have pulled away from their families. Reading this story will make you reconsidered your actions.
I am looking forward to reading Ryan's Crossing, book 2 in this series.
I highly recommend this book.
I rated this book a 5 out of 5.
Disclosure
I received a free copy of this book from Ambassador-Emerald International for review. I was in no way compensated for this review. It is my own opinion.
If you found this review helpful vote yes or no here.
March 28, 2015
Reviewed by Michelle Stanley for Readers' Favorite
Crossing Values is a Christian fiction by Carrie Daws. Amber Griffiths had no idea that her life would change when she travels to Crossing, Oregon. She accepts a temporary job, accommodation from Frank and Faye Yager who tries to make her feel at home, but Amber is distrustful and reluctant to talk about the troubled past she ran from. She cannot believe how kind and caring this family is, and thinks it is too good to be true. How can the Yagers maintain their strong Christian beliefs after experiencing painful challenges in their lives? Peter, the Yager’s youngest son, makes an extra effort to see if he can gain Amber’s trust, and lends her an inspirational book that she finds reflective. Amber is beginning to understand why the Yagers feel blessed, when the past catches up, disrupting her short-lived happiness.
Carrie Daws has written a lovely book, Crossing Values that has a strong theme. I think the story is wonderful and like its originality. It is interesting to see how Amber responds to the Yagers who showers her with love, while being sympathetic to her situation. I enjoy how the author incorporates Bible references to support every problem that comes up, as well as the conversations that each character has with God, who gives His smart responses when necessary. Crossing Values by Carrie Daws is a very entertaining Christian story, which addresses realistic issues that occur in our society, while offering motivation and uplifting messages within a light-hearted romantic plot.
Crossing Values is a Christian fiction by Carrie Daws. Amber Griffiths had no idea that her life would change when she travels to Crossing, Oregon. She accepts a temporary job, accommodation from Frank and Faye Yager who tries to make her feel at home, but Amber is distrustful and reluctant to talk about the troubled past she ran from. She cannot believe how kind and caring this family is, and thinks it is too good to be true. How can the Yagers maintain their strong Christian beliefs after experiencing painful challenges in their lives? Peter, the Yager’s youngest son, makes an extra effort to see if he can gain Amber’s trust, and lends her an inspirational book that she finds reflective. Amber is beginning to understand why the Yagers feel blessed, when the past catches up, disrupting her short-lived happiness.
Carrie Daws has written a lovely book, Crossing Values that has a strong theme. I think the story is wonderful and like its originality. It is interesting to see how Amber responds to the Yagers who showers her with love, while being sympathetic to her situation. I enjoy how the author incorporates Bible references to support every problem that comes up, as well as the conversations that each character has with God, who gives His smart responses when necessary. Crossing Values by Carrie Daws is a very entertaining Christian story, which addresses realistic issues that occur in our society, while offering motivation and uplifting messages within a light-hearted romantic plot.
June 17, 2013
I just finished reading Crossing Values by Carrie Daws. This is a new author for me and I thoroughly enjoyed her work. What a great read. It was the first in a two-book series and it made me want to read on to find out what happened in the next book. It was definitely a romance, but there were some elements of mystery and intrigue as I was curious about what had happened in Amber’s past to make her so distrustful?
I fell instantly in love with Peter’s family and even though they seemed a little unrealistic for today’s society, that in itself made me sad. They shouldn’t be the exception, the standards that the family lived by were (are) Biblical standards and more people (families) should embrace those values and share God’s love with those around them. Instead of seeming false or unrealistic, it made me want to strive to be more like the family and to go out and make a difference in the lives of others around me. There was something very appealing about Peter’s family that pulled me in and wanted me to learn more.
I loved that Ms. Daws kept a strong spiritual element throughout the entire story; but I also loved how she brought in another aspect by introducing angels to the storyline. I love to think we all have angels “unaware” around us. She just brought them more forefront in the storyline than we encounter on a daily basis.
Great story, loved the characters and she definitely made me want to read more.
I fell instantly in love with Peter’s family and even though they seemed a little unrealistic for today’s society, that in itself made me sad. They shouldn’t be the exception, the standards that the family lived by were (are) Biblical standards and more people (families) should embrace those values and share God’s love with those around them. Instead of seeming false or unrealistic, it made me want to strive to be more like the family and to go out and make a difference in the lives of others around me. There was something very appealing about Peter’s family that pulled me in and wanted me to learn more.
I loved that Ms. Daws kept a strong spiritual element throughout the entire story; but I also loved how she brought in another aspect by introducing angels to the storyline. I love to think we all have angels “unaware” around us. She just brought them more forefront in the storyline than we encounter on a daily basis.
Great story, loved the characters and she definitely made me want to read more.
June 12, 2012
A good story about a lost woman trying to find her way in the world, and a place to belong. Amber has had a tough life, running away from a tragic family at 16. A family finds her, and gives her a place in their family and helps her find Jesus and God.
Overall I liked the book, but the relationship felt very rushed. I didn't see much bonding going on with the characters, only with God. I liked that Amber was bonding with Faye and God so well, but I wish a little more emphasis could have been placed with her romantic bonding with Peter. In the end it felt less like she chose Peter as a man, and more like she chose him because of his family. It also felt like he might have chosen her just because she was there, and became a Christian. All very good reasons, but I feel like a marriage needs a little bit more. I just never felt that sort of connection between them, but more of a teacher-student relationship.
I loved the interactions of the family though, and the good Christian values put forward for her to explore slowly. Her relationship with God came very naturally and the questions she asked were very realistic. I felt that this was the books strong point and even a bit of a map on how to help others in her situation find the same faith. I also loved the sweet ending with her parents, it was very emotional and uplifting.
Overall I liked the book, but the relationship felt very rushed. I didn't see much bonding going on with the characters, only with God. I liked that Amber was bonding with Faye and God so well, but I wish a little more emphasis could have been placed with her romantic bonding with Peter. In the end it felt less like she chose Peter as a man, and more like she chose him because of his family. It also felt like he might have chosen her just because she was there, and became a Christian. All very good reasons, but I feel like a marriage needs a little bit more. I just never felt that sort of connection between them, but more of a teacher-student relationship.
I loved the interactions of the family though, and the good Christian values put forward for her to explore slowly. Her relationship with God came very naturally and the questions she asked were very realistic. I felt that this was the books strong point and even a bit of a map on how to help others in her situation find the same faith. I also loved the sweet ending with her parents, it was very emotional and uplifting.
February 12, 2013
Carrie Daws writes with a freedom that can only come from the Lord. Her ability to expose her characters and their emotions makes “Crossing Values” a book, which once you start reading it; you really won’t want to put down!
Amber’s pain and anger resonates loudly, until one day she finds it is too painful to hide the emptiness that has kept her moving from one place to another for years.
It wasn’t a coincidence she landed in Crossing, Oregon. God, with His infinite wisdom, had a plan not just for Amber alone!
I gobbled up the librettos with anticipation. The story which unfolded before me gave meaning and hope, not only to the individuals in the book, but to me as well. It breaks through to the moral fibers of living a Christian life, not just for Amber.
In “Crossing Values” Carrie Daws shows God’s example in how He wants us to walk and minister to others who cross our path.
This fictional work is one of the best reads I have appreciated in some time, and I want to thank Carrie personally for sending me her book so I could review it.
I hope that many will buy this book and LOVE IT as much as I did….but wait! Even though I thought I would know the ending of the story, HA, Carrie Daws surprises me again.
Wonderful, delightful, AMAZINGLY BRILLIANT!
Rev. Lorrie J. Sims
Duluth, MN.
Amber’s pain and anger resonates loudly, until one day she finds it is too painful to hide the emptiness that has kept her moving from one place to another for years.
It wasn’t a coincidence she landed in Crossing, Oregon. God, with His infinite wisdom, had a plan not just for Amber alone!
I gobbled up the librettos with anticipation. The story which unfolded before me gave meaning and hope, not only to the individuals in the book, but to me as well. It breaks through to the moral fibers of living a Christian life, not just for Amber.
In “Crossing Values” Carrie Daws shows God’s example in how He wants us to walk and minister to others who cross our path.
This fictional work is one of the best reads I have appreciated in some time, and I want to thank Carrie personally for sending me her book so I could review it.
I hope that many will buy this book and LOVE IT as much as I did….but wait! Even though I thought I would know the ending of the story, HA, Carrie Daws surprises me again.
Wonderful, delightful, AMAZINGLY BRILLIANT!
Rev. Lorrie J. Sims
Duluth, MN.
November 21, 2012
Crossing Values is the story of a lost soul who is saved by a very special family. Amber has spent the last ten years running from place to place as she tries to escape her past. She is offered a job and a place to live with Frank Yager and his wife and son. Although she intends this to be temporary, she soon realizes that she has found a home and a family. With the help of the Yagers, Amber is able to confront her past and look forward to a promising future. I enjoyed Amber's story. In fact, I wish it had been a little longer and more detailed. Things seemed to happen too quickly to be realistic, and that detracted from the story for me. Crossing Values is categorized as a Christian romance and the story definitely acknowledges the major role played by God in the lives of His children. That being said, I did not find the religious content to be too heavy handed. The characters pray, go to church, and discuss their feelings about God, but all of this fits in with the flow of the story, and appears to be a natural part of it. I look forward to reading the sequel to this story, because I would like to see the characters developed a little deeper. They are interesting people and I would like to get to know them better.
April 15, 2013
I enjoyed this book. Review to follow.
Review of CROSSING Values, by Carrie Daws.
Amber Griffin, 26 and alone, had been on the run for more than a decade. She left home after her sister died, and her parents fell apart. Not being able to handle the neglect that followed, she ran away when she was sixteen.
Fast forward ten years, to a small mountain town of Crossing, Oregon.
Tired of running and bitterly cold, Amber Griffin, now 26, sat on a park bench, pondering her options. From her vantage point she could see several businesses, including a law office, ice cream shop, local newspaper, and a General store. What did she have to lose? She left the bench to go see if she could find someone who needed part-time help.
This is a story about a girl who learned how to trust again; who found love and acceptance, and the family she always dreamed of having, centered in God's love.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I really enjoyed this story. Very heart-warming, emotionally relate-able, with twists and turns, and with realistic people with real issues.
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I received this book, free of charge, in exchange for my review.
Review of CROSSING Values, by Carrie Daws.
Amber Griffin, 26 and alone, had been on the run for more than a decade. She left home after her sister died, and her parents fell apart. Not being able to handle the neglect that followed, she ran away when she was sixteen.
Fast forward ten years, to a small mountain town of Crossing, Oregon.
Tired of running and bitterly cold, Amber Griffin, now 26, sat on a park bench, pondering her options. From her vantage point she could see several businesses, including a law office, ice cream shop, local newspaper, and a General store. What did she have to lose? She left the bench to go see if she could find someone who needed part-time help.
This is a story about a girl who learned how to trust again; who found love and acceptance, and the family she always dreamed of having, centered in God's love.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I really enjoyed this story. Very heart-warming, emotionally relate-able, with twists and turns, and with realistic people with real issues.
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I received this book, free of charge, in exchange for my review.
December 6, 2012
I received this book when a first reads book giveaway arrived by the same author. The book I won was the 2nd in a series, so the first one was included. I just finished this one and although it was a short, easy read, I enjoyed it a lot. It is not your typical Christian fiction book. It is about life as Christian living everyday life in struggles, prayer, family and such. It is full of real Christian life and not just a story with some Bible verses thrown in and some prayers uttered.
That being said. It is great for entertainment. It is a love story and a story about a family that loves each other and is very close. I don't think that is typical as much as I would wish it were. It was a little bit like the Waltons in that respect. Having a large family base does allow for future books much like Dee Henderson does with her books.
I look forward to reading more of Carrie Daw's book and will eagerly pass these on to my niece in her early 20's. Thanks Carrie for including this book and autographing it as well.
That being said. It is great for entertainment. It is a love story and a story about a family that loves each other and is very close. I don't think that is typical as much as I would wish it were. It was a little bit like the Waltons in that respect. Having a large family base does allow for future books much like Dee Henderson does with her books.
I look forward to reading more of Carrie Daw's book and will eagerly pass these on to my niece in her early 20's. Thanks Carrie for including this book and autographing it as well.
January 11, 2013
Crossing Values is probably not a book I would have immediately selected to read. However, the author sent me a copy of this and I decided it would be one of my January reads. It's about a young woman, Amber, who is running from a troubled past and lands in a small Oregon logging community. Her path crosses the Yager family's and the Yager's take her in as one of their own--giving her shelter, food, employment and love. This is basically a story of a young woman who is lost--doesn't have friends, family, is untrusting of everyone and everything around her. The Yager's show her that there are good people left in the world and they also help her find the one who will never leave her and will always make sure she's taken care of . . . God.
This isn't an overly preachy tale. It's well written and an uplifting, quick read. It definitely serves as a nice reminder that God works in mysterious ways and is always good--even when we may not fully realize it. Definitely recommend reading this one and it can certainly be finished in less than a day (it's only around 160 pages).
This isn't an overly preachy tale. It's well written and an uplifting, quick read. It definitely serves as a nice reminder that God works in mysterious ways and is always good--even when we may not fully realize it. Definitely recommend reading this one and it can certainly be finished in less than a day (it's only around 160 pages).
March 15, 2013
Crossing Values brought me right in & never let go. I loved the characters, they felt like friends, going through tough times & joys with some twists, turns & uncertainty. A story of learning to trust & forgive written wonderfully & believably. I was sad to come to the end until realizing I the second book in the series, Ryan's Crossing, was waiting for me to continue with these lovable characters. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I'm so glad because it introduced me to Carrie Daws whom I have happily added to my list of favorite Christian authors!
January 30, 2012
I received a copy of this book for free through the Goodreads first reads program.
I generally avoid Christian lit because inevitably it be becomes so overly preachy that the story gets lost. That is not the case with this book. Yes, it does sometimes get to be a bit much, and, overall, it's extremely sappy and unbelievable, but, for some reason, it still works. I felt a real connection to the characters and I really cared how their story turned out.
I generally avoid Christian lit because inevitably it be becomes so overly preachy that the story gets lost. That is not the case with this book. Yes, it does sometimes get to be a bit much, and, overall, it's extremely sappy and unbelievable, but, for some reason, it still works. I felt a real connection to the characters and I really cared how their story turned out.
February 23, 2013
If you are looking for a Christian fiction romance, this is a book for you. It was a quick in read in that it kept you wanting to read the next page/chapter to see where it was going next. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their relationship to each other. The book reminds me that when I am asking God for answers that I need to stop and actually listen as opposed to just doing what I want.
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
March 16, 2013
I really liked the hometown feel of this book. Loved the family and how they took in Amber and just loved on her. I liked that it was not an insta love connection but a slow build up with issues that needed to be resolved. I also really enjoyed that the author included a little bit of "help" from a really cool resource. Looking forward to reading Ryan's Crossing next. I received this book from the author for my honest review.
April 9, 2013
Yes, this was quite predictable. Yes, this was almost too good to be true.
Yet, this was so totally uplifting and well-written, it would benefit all to read
and enjoy this booklet. I am, personally, looking forward to many more of the
author's incredible stories and talented writing. There was never a lull in the
story and incidents kept quickly moving on, holding the reader's interest.
Great for Book Club discussions and clean enough for any age.
Yet, this was so totally uplifting and well-written, it would benefit all to read
and enjoy this booklet. I am, personally, looking forward to many more of the
author's incredible stories and talented writing. There was never a lull in the
story and incidents kept quickly moving on, holding the reader's interest.
Great for Book Club discussions and clean enough for any age.
April 20, 2013
I received this book from the author and I will admit that I had never heard of Carrie Daws before but she is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her story line held my interest from beginning to end. Her characters were very real and I could relate well. I loved Peter and his family. I loved how they lived their faith throughout the story and how they were able to point Amber towards God and her need of Him.
March 5, 2012
Crossing Values, is not what I had expected. It consists of 150 pages, nice print, excellent story flow. I read this in one sitting and it was a wonderful heartwarming story. It occurred to me that this would make an excellent bedtime story for a small child. The story could be made into a fairy tale. Very sweet. I would consider it a pleasure to read anything else by this author. Thank you
December 31, 2012
Carrie Daws is an excellent writer -
This book made me laugh and cry and filled my soul with hope. I can't explain how she can write such a wonderful novel other than she must be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Don't pass this one up or any of her other books. She will become your favorite author as she has mine!
Debbie Reetz
This book made me laugh and cry and filled my soul with hope. I can't explain how she can write such a wonderful novel other than she must be filled with the Holy Spirit.
Don't pass this one up or any of her other books. She will become your favorite author as she has mine!
Debbie Reetz
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